If you want to become an expert traveler, or even just make sure your future trips all go smoothly and efficiently, there are plenty of ways to transform any travel experience from a merely acceptable one to a great one. Read the below tips to find out how to make your trips effortless and enjoyable.

Befriend your driver when traveling by bus. Though you are not supposed to engage the driver in idle chatter while they drive the open road, you should take the time to talk to them as much as possible. This way you will know of any delays or upcoming route changes.

Take earplugs for flights and hotel stays. With the right level of noise blocking you can eliminate the volume that accompanies airplane travel. Also sleeping in hotels in an unfamiliar location can be hit or miss as far as the outside noise level. These earplugs can be the difference in a good night’s sleep or a grouchy morning.

When you arrive at your destination regardless of if it is overseas or within the country you live in, one of the best places for information is at a local tourism office or at your hotel’s concierge. Ask for the clerk’s recommendations or suggestions as they are native to the area and will have helpful tips to make your trip more pleasant.

Sometimes long flights can cause you to sit and sit and sit. Don’t be afraid to get up and walk down the aisles every once in a while. Exercise is great for you and when the plane reaches its’ destination, you won’t feel so lousy and you will avoid the stiff feeling in your legs.

When deciding to travel by car with children, have a portable DVD player or an built-in DVD player in your vehicle. This can make a really long trip appear much shorter to them and it can keep them distracted so that they don’t start misbehaving because they become bored or impatient.

Consider joining a travel and motor club to provide you with travel assistance. Not only do these types of clubs provide towing, they offer maps, travel planning, insurance, travelers checks, lockout assistance and more. As a bonus, many hotels and attractions offer discounts to members. The cost of membership can pay for itself when you save money on all these things.

When picking a destination to travel to pick somewhere that is affordable. You don’t want to travel somewhere that is so expensive you can’t enjoy yourself to the fullest. You want to make sure you have fun, but at the same time, you want to make it fit into your budget.

Car rental companies generally require their renters be 18 years of age at the youngest, there are now companies that require drivers to be 25 years or older. If you are under 25, the rate may be slightly higher, and a credit card may be required. Some cities do not allow senior citizens to rent cars. When you are making your reservation be sure to ask the age restrictions.

People who travel for a living learn to use a lot of little tips and tricks, like the ones above, to make sure all their trips are simple, pleasant experiences, whether they’re leaving home for a day or a month. With these insider tips, you’re well on your way to being an expert traveler, too.